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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue, could develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos claim are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

asbestos lawsuit fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung lining (pleura) but it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. For a long time it was utilized in many American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The Asbestos Legal industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in ship construction, buildings, cars and many other products. People who worked in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.

The exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this condition. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.